Hello, I’m Siobhan
My Role: GP Assistant
Where I work: Pennygate Medical Centre
What do I do in my role?
I run my own clinics at Pennygate Medical Centre - the clinic appointments can include blood tests, electrocardiograms (ECGs), blood pressure checks, vitamin B12 injections, flu injections, NHS health checks, carers health checks, severe mental illness (SMI) health checks, and new patient medicals.
I do a lot of community clinics with other Hindley Primary Care Network GP Assistants - we are an established team of 6 and regularly work together at community health events. I am also veteran clinical lead at Pennygate Medical Centre and enjoy supporting our military veterans in the surgery.
What’s my career journey?
When I left school, I actually did an apprenticeship as a hairdresser and qualified to NVQ level 3. I loved this, but decided that I wanted to do a career in care after becoming my mum's carer when she became terminally unwell.
After leaving hairdressing, I went in to support work - supporting people in their own homes. I then started my career in the NHS working at Wigan Infirmary - my jobs have included domestic assistant, bereavement officer, and auxiliary nurse. I also worked in general practice for a year as an anticoagulation administrator. I wanted to progress in my career and saw that there was an opening for a trainee GP Assistant job, this included building a portfolio and gaining a Pearson BTEC Level 4 Qualification. I qualified as a GP Assistant in November 2024.
What’s the best thing about my job?
I absolutely love my job. I love talking to patients and helping them by ensuring that they get the best care possible. My job is so rewarding.
My top skills
- Good listener
- Good communication skills
Good personal qualities to have
- Empathy
- Friendly
- Caring
- Kind
- Compassionate
What do I want to do next?
At the minute I am very happy with my job and can't see me doing anything else. I feel really settled and content in my job role.